Energy Communities Community of Practice launched on the Public Buyers Platform

The European Commission has launched the Energy Communities Community of Practice on the Public Buyers Platform, creating a dedicated space for exchange on social public procurement and community energy.

The Community brings together public authorities, procurement professionals, energy communities and support organisations to share practical knowledge on how procurement can support citizen-led and socially inclusive energy initiatives.

The launch follows the Citizens Energy Package, which includes guidance to help households, communities, small businesses and local authorities take a more active role in the clean energy transition. It also supports the Commission’s Energy Communities Action Plan, including efforts to promote social inclusion criteria in public procurement and concessions.

Members will have access to resources, case studies, peer exchange, moderated discussions, thematic spaces and webinars. The Community will help public buyers better understand how procurement can enable energy communities, while supporting energy communities in navigating procurement processes and engaging with municipalities as credible partners.

By using procurement strategically, public authorities can help open opportunities for citizen-led renewable energy projects, support vulnerable households, strengthen local participation and ensure that community benefits are better integrated into the energy transition.

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